Looking for a fun outing to engaging in during the colder months? Whether you want to enjoy a night out with your friends, host a work team bonding event (with a little competition) or drop in for a casual round of axe throwing, Bad Axe Throwing has something for all. It’s the world’s biggest urban axe throwing club, on a mission to “bring the thrill of a traditional Canadian backyard pastime to urban communities,” according to one of its advocates, Nick, who runs the DC venue at 2419 Evarts St NE. Bad Axe Throwing has nine locations in Canada and now, with the DC venue, seven in the US.
Many of us have seen or heard about axe throwing on the “Lumberjack Show.” Or maybe you caught a glimpse of the September episode of the “Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, where Fallon clearly had the upper hand in his axe throwing skills against Jennifer Lawrence. In this episode (also a YouTube clip) you can see that even the novice can partake in a friendly game.
If you are concerned that you’ve never thrown an axe before, no worries! A coach is provided to instruct you how to properly throw an axe and aim for the bullseye. It’s more than just great for hand-eye coordination and utilizing the arms, as the back, core and feet play critical parts in throwing too.
Will and I, local Hillians who are open to trying new activities, engaged in an eventful evening of axe throwing. Instructor Nick resourcefully taught us to throw the axe. Axe throwing is easy to pick up, though Will and I quickly escalated the game into a challenging yet friendly competition. Nick gave us pointers to adjust our form, further helping with our accuracy.
My first throw was just an inch from the bullseye – not bad for a first-timer. Will quickly upped his game, knowing my friendly yet competitive nature. In a close battle, going neck and neck the whole way, Will beat me by two points.
We’ve come to the conclusion that we’ll be back for another round of competition – though I have the feeling Will’s hesitation is due to the fact that he wants to keep his winning record. I can’t blame him.
“We’ve had all sorts of groups book axe throwing events,” stated instructor Nick. “One group of guys asked ahead of time if they could hang a few ex-wife’s belongings that were left behind after a divorce. Needless to say, the divorce party at Bad Axe Throwing was successful on multiple levels. Not only were they able to get rid of her things, they were able to enjoy time with friends and let off some steam.”
The Rules
Group events at Bad Axe Throwing last about two and a half to three hours, so you can engage in a good number of throws against your partner. Three lanes divided by wooden chain-linked fences provide each group with a designated area to “play.” Each lane consists of two targets. Before the competition begins, the rule book states, the group is split in half, pairing each person with a person from the opposing team. Standing 12-15 feet in front of the lane and team target, each paired competitor throws one axe at a time – five throws on one target and five on the other.
Children are welcome to participate, provided they are able to throw the axe in a safe manner and their guardian is present. Wearing comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes is highly recommended. All you need to do is reserve and show up, since Bad Axe Throwing provides all the materials and equipment, including the axes.
While cheering on your teammate, you can taste and sip on your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Just be sure to stand in the safety zone that’s located eight feet away from the throwing zone. If not everyone in your party would like to participate, there is no cost watching and cheering on those engaging in the competition.
For more information about Bad Axe Throwing and to book your event, visit www.badaxethrowing.com/locations/axe-throwing-washington-dc/#. Located at 2419 Evarts St. NE, Bad Axe Throwing is open seven days a week by appointment only and can be reached at 1-888-435-0001.
Stacy Peterson, M.S. human nutrition and functional medicine, CNS, CHHC, CSCS, is a functional nutritionist, holistic health, wellness and strength and conditioning coach practicing whole-foods nutrition and physical training to individuals of all ages on Capitol Hill. She provides an integrative approach, critical to everyone’s healthcare and performance team, helping individuals reach their health goals. For recipes, nutrition ideas and exercise tips sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.accelerationsports.net. Connect with Stacy by email, stacy@accelerationsports.net, or by calling 805-704-7193 for a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and discuss how she can help you achieve your digestion, overall health and fitness goals.
